NHS health and safety chiefs ban ‘dangerous’ metal paper clips

The future of the humble metal paper clip is under threat after being banned by NHS health and safety officials for being ‘too dangerous’.

‘Dangerous’: Metal paper clips have been banned in Manchester

Manchester NHS Trust officials made the decision to stop the use of the metal stationary item after a member of staff cut their finger using one.

In a memo to staff, it was warned that the use of metal fasteners was ‘prohibited’ and the offending clips must be ‘carefully disposed of immediately’.

‘Due to recent incidents, NHS Manchester has decided to immediately withdraw the use of metal paper fasteners,’ explained the memo featuring an accompanying picture of a paper clip – just to avoid any confusion.

‘Please ensure any that remain in use be replaced by similar plastic fasteners.

‘The use of metal fasteners is prohibited and must be carefully disposed of immediately. Thank you for your co-operation.’

The clips have been banned from the city’s GP surgeries, clinics and offices in favour of a plastic alternative.

However, a member of staff told the Manchester Evening News: ‘It is ridiculous. They’re vaguely sharp, like drawing pins and fountain pens.

‘I can only assume top brass think that they’ve employed idiots who need nannying through the working day.’

Another added: ‘We should just be lucky the safety memo didn’t run to two pages, that might have proved a bit tricky.’